Ukraine has the potential to produce up to 8 million drones per year, but funding is holding back this development
Under certain conditions, Ukraine is capable of producing up to 8 million unmanned aerial vehicles of various purposes annually — from reconnaissance to combat models, but this ambitious prospect remains unattainable due to an acute shortage of financial resources. These estimates were shared by President Volodymyr Zelensky during his speech at the Defense Industries Forum in the Netherlands, emphasizing the importance of increasing its own defense capabilities and attracting additional investment. According to the head of state, Ukraine's modern defense production potential already exceeds 35 billion euros, covering almost 1,000 product lines — from artillery systems and combat vehicles to modern drones and guided missiles. This indicates the breadth and depth of the country's industrial complex, which is capable of providing the defense sector with significant volumes of production. However, despite significant achievements, about 40% of this capacity does not have proper financial support, which complicates the realization of the potential. The Head of State drew attention to the fact that, by strengthening its defense capabilities, Ukraine could produce significantly larger volumes of unmanned aerial vehicles. "We can produce about eight million drones of various types every year, but in reality we only have funding for a much smaller number," Zelensky emphasized. This means that without additional investments, the Ukrainian defense industry will not be able to fully realize its potential, which puts the country in unpredictable and risky conditions. The importance of strengthening the defense potential was discussed not only in technical details. The President emphasized that Russia actively uses not only its own oil revenues to finance the war, but also global resources - in particular, countries that support Moscow, such as Iran and North Korea, and also uses corruption schemes in cross-border schemes. This allows Russia to drag its military resources and increase pressure on Ukraine and the international community. Zelensky stressed that the unity and solidarity of the world community is the most effective response to Russian aggression. “Our solidarity in unity is the best response to the Russian combat and military network,” he said, calling on everyone to actively support Ukraine in strengthening its defense capabilities and production capabilities. Thus, the Ukrainian defense industry has significant potential for growth, but it needs to overcome financial barriers and active international support to achieve strategic goals. This will become a key factor in strengthening the country’s independence and security in the face of current geopolitical tensions.